Just Another Blog, that shows how the Right is Wrong in Texas.
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Tuesday, May 10, 2005

No Toll Tag Necessary

This is proof positive that the grassroots can make an impact. Corridor Watch has united people from across the state to take on the Trans-Texas Corridor (TTC). They have held multiple rallies, organized LTE's, put together call-in days, and effectively put together lobby days. I am impressed with this group and my only concern is that they dissolve after this fight is over.CorridorWatch.org sets the record straight:

HB-2893 was substituted in Committee before being reported out. In other words, the bill was changed to remove the transponder and enforcement provisions before the previously reported 8-0 favorable vote.

NO ELECTRONIC IDENTIFICATION OR TOLL TAG

The bill (HB-2893) that will go to the full House no longer contains the electronic identification and toll tag requirement.

This is the section of the bill that reminds me of the Voter ID and National ID movement going on. This would have required all people to get a toll tag and give the state all of their information including driving history, social security number, and a credit card number. This would not only make people more susceptible to identity theft, but it also would allow the state to track drivers at will.

BUT, THE THREAT IS NOT OVER

There are those in our government who want a transponder on your vehicle, and they will be back, maybe without any warning.

These same provisions can be attached to another bill on the floor of the House and passed before you know it.

OUR FREEDOMS AND LIBERTIES ARE STILL AT RISK

Although the language of HB-2893 has been changed, we must recognize that the transponder identification scheme was proposed and placed in a bill enrolled in our state legislature. It will happen again and again until they succeed unless we remain vigilant and strongly voice our objections.